Distributed low voltage power systems

ABSTRACT

A distributed low voltage power system is disclosed herein. The system can include a power source generating line voltage power, and a first line voltage cable having a first line voltage end and a second line voltage end, where the first line voltage end is coupled to the power source. The system can also include a first power distribution module (PDM) comprising a first power transfer device and a first output channel. The system can further include a first LV cable having a first LV end and a second LV end, where the first LV end is coupled to the first output channel of the first PDM. The system can also include at least one first LV device operating on the first LV signal, where the second LV end of the first LV cable is coupled to the at least one first LV device.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application of and claims priorityunder 35 U.S.C. § 120 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/216,384,titled “Distributed Low Voltage Power Systems” and filed on Jul. 21,2016, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/695,535, titled “Distributed Low Voltage PowerSystems” and filed on Apr. 24, 2015, which claims priority under 35U.S.C. § 119 to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/003,607,titled “Distributed Low Voltage Power Systems” and filed on May 28,2014. The entire contents of these aforementioned applications arehereby incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments described herein relate generally to power distributionsystems, and more particularly to systems, methods, and devices for lowvoltage power distribution systems.

BACKGROUND

Certain devices within distributed power systems can operate ondifferent types (e.g., direct current (DC), alternating current (AC))and/or amounts (e.g., 24V, 2 A, 120V, 50 mA) of power relative to thetype and amount of power that feeds the distributed power system.Further, the devices receiving power from the device distributing thepower within the distributed power system can be located relativelyclose.

SUMMARY

In general, in one aspect, the disclosure relates to a distributed lowvoltage power system. The distributed low voltage power system caninclude a power source generating line voltage power. The distributedlow voltage power system can also include a first line voltage cablehaving a first line voltage end and a second line voltage end, where thefirst line voltage end is coupled to the power source. The distributedlow voltage power system can further include a first power distributionmodule (PDM) having a first power transfer device, where the second linevoltage end of the first line voltage cable is coupled to the first PDM,where the first PDM receives the input power from the power sourcethrough the first line voltage cable, where the first power transferdevice generates a first low-voltage (LV) signal from the input power,and where the first PDM comprises a first output channel. Thedistributed low voltage power system can also include a first LV cablehaving a first LV end and a second LV end, where the first LV end iscoupled to the first output channel of the first PDM. The distributedlow voltage power system can further include at least one first LVdevice operating on the first LV signal, where the second LV end of thefirst LV cable is coupled to the at least one first LV device, where theat least one first LV device receives the first LV signal from the firstPDM through the first LV cable.

In another aspect, the disclosure can generally relate to a powerdistribution module. The power distribution module can include an inputportion configured to receive high-voltage (HV) power from a powersource. The power distribution module can also include a power transferdevice electrically coupled to the input portion, where the powertransfer device is configured to generate at least one low-voltage (LV)signal using the line voltage power. The power distribution module canfurther include an output section electrically coupled to the powertransfer device and having a number of channels, where each channel ofthe output section is configured to deliver the at least one LV signalfor use by at least one LV device.

In yet another aspect, the disclosure can generally relate to a methodfor distributing low voltage power within a system. The method caninclude receiving line voltage power from a power source. The method canalso include generating a first low-voltage (LV) signal using the linevoltage power. The method can further include sending, through a firstoutput channel, the first LV signal to at least one LV device. The firstLV signal can operate the at least one LV device.

In still another aspect, the disclosure can generally relate to amultiple output channel point-of-load (POL) control module. The multipleoutput channel point-of-load (POL) control module can include an inputportion configured to receive at least one low-voltage (LV) signal. Themultiple output channel point-of-load (POL) control module can alsoinclude a controller device electrically coupled to the input potion,where the controller device is configured to generate at least onedistributed LV signal based on the at least one LV signal. The multipleoutput channel point-of-load (POL) control module can further include anoutput section electrically coupled to the controller device and havinga number of channels, where each channel of the output section isconfigured to deliver the at least one distributed LV signal for use byat least one LV device.

These and other aspects, objects, features, and embodiments will beapparent from the following description and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings illustrate only example embodiments of distributed lowvoltage power systems and are therefore not to be considered limiting ofits scope, as distributed low voltage power systems may admit to otherequally effective embodiments. The elements and features shown in thedrawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placedupon clearly illustrating the principles of the example embodiments.Additionally, certain dimensions or positionings may be exaggerated tohelp visually convey such principles. In the drawings, referencenumerals designate like or corresponding, but not necessarily identical,elements.

FIG. 1 shows a system diagram of a distributed power system currentlyknown in the art.

FIG. 2 shows a system diagram of a distributed low voltage power systemin accordance with certain example embodiments.

FIG. 3 shows a system diagram of another distributed low voltage powersystem in accordance with certain example embodiments.

FIG. 4 shows a system diagram of yet another distributed low voltagepower system in accordance with certain example embodiments.

FIG. 5 shows a system diagram of still another distributed low voltagepower system in accordance with certain example embodiments.

FIGS. 6A and 6B show a system diagram of yet another distributed lowvoltage power system in accordance with certain example embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

The example embodiments discussed herein are directed to systems,apparatuses, and methods of distributed low voltage power systems. Whileexample embodiments described herein are directed to use with lightingsystems, example embodiments can also be used in systems having othertypes of devices. Examples of such other systems can include, but arenot limited to, security systems, fire protection systems, emergencymanagement systems, and assembly systems. Thus, example embodiments arenot limited to use with lighting systems.

As described herein, a user can be any person that interacts withexample distributed low voltage power systems. Examples of a user mayinclude, but are not limited to, a consumer, an electrician, anengineer, a mechanic, a pipe fitter, an instrumentation and controltechnician, a consultant, a contractor, an operator, and amanufacturer's representative. For any figure shown and describedherein, one or more of the components may be omitted, added, repeated,and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments shown in a particularfigure should not be considered limited to the specific arrangements ofcomponents shown in such figure.

Further, if a component of a figure is described but not expressly shownor labeled in that figure, the label used for a corresponding componentin another figure can be inferred to that component. Conversely, if acomponent in a figure is labeled but not described, the description forsuch component can be substantially the same as the description for thecorresponding component in another figure. The numbering scheme for thevarious components in the figures herein is such that each component isa three digit number and corresponding components in other figures havethe identical last two digits.

In certain example embodiments, the distributed low voltage powersystems (or portions thereof) described herein meet one or more of anumber of standards, codes, regulations, and/or other requirementsestablished and maintained by one or more entities. Examples of suchentities include, but are not limited to, Underwriters' Laboratories,the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, and the NationalFire Protection Association. For example, wiring (the wire itself and/orthe installation of such wire) that electrically couples an example PDM(defined below) with a device may fall within one or more standards setforth in the National Electric Code (NEC). Specifically, the NEC definesClass 1 circuits and Class 2 circuits under various Articles, dependingon the application of use.

Class 1 circuits under the NEC typically operate using line voltages(e.g., between 120 VAC and 600 VAC). The wiring used for Class 1circuits under the NEC must be run in raceways, conduit, and enclosuresfor splices and terminations. Consequently, wiring for Class 1 circuitsmust be installed by a licensed electrical professional. By contrast,Class 2 circuits under the NEC typically operate at lower power levels(e.g., up to 100 VA, no more than 60 VDC). The wiring used for Class 2circuits under the NEC does not need to be run in raceways, conduit,and/or enclosures for splices and terminations. Specifically, the NECdefines a Class 2 circuit as that portion of a wiring system between theload side of a Class 2 power source and the connected equipment. Due toits power limitations, a Class 2 circuit is considered safe from a fireinitiation standpoint and provides acceptable protection from electricalshock. Consequently, wiring for Class 2 circuits can be installed bysomeone other than a licensed electrical professional.

As another example, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)sets and maintains multiple standards and categorizations of electricalsupply for a system. One such categorization is separated or safetyextra-low voltage (SELV) is an electrical system in which the voltagecannot exceed 25 V AC RMS (root-mean-square) (35 V AC peak) or 60 V DCunder dry, normal conditions, and under single-fault conditions,including earth faults in other circuits. Another such categorization isprotected extra-low voltage (PELV) is an electrical system in which thevoltage cannot exceed 25 V AC RMS (35 V AC peak) or 60 V DC under dry,normal conditions, and under single-fault conditions, except earthfaults in other circuits. Yet another such categorization is functionalextra-low voltage (FELV) is an electrical system in which the voltagecannot exceed 25 V AC RMS (35 V AC peak) or 60 V DC under normalconditions.

Example embodiments of distributed low voltage power systems will bedescribed more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanyingdrawings, in which example embodiments of distributed low voltage powersystems are shown. Distributed low voltage power systems may, however,be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed aslimited to the example embodiments set forth herein. Rather, theseexample embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will bethorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of distributedlow voltage power systems to those of ordinary skill in the art. Like,but not necessarily the same, elements (also sometimes calledcomponents) in the various figures are denoted by like referencenumerals for consistency.

Terms such as “first” and “second” are used merely to distinguish onecomponent (or part of a component or state of a component) from another.Such terms are not meant to denote a preference or a particularorientation, and are not meant to limit embodiments of distributed lowvoltage power systems. In the following detailed description of theexample embodiments, numerous specific details are set forth in order toprovide a more thorough understanding of the invention. However, it willbe apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the invention maybe practiced without these specific details. In other instances,well-known features have not been described in detail to avoidunnecessarily complicating the description.

FIG. 1 shows a system diagram of a distributed power system 100currently known in the art. The system 100 of FIG. 1 includes a powersource 110, a number (in this case, four) of troffer lights 130, anumber (in this case, three) of can lights 150, a number (in this case,one) of sensing devices 140, and a number (in this case, one) ofcontrollers 190. All of these components of the system 100 areelectrically coupled to each other by a number of line voltage cables102. Operational components of the system 100 (or any system describedherein), such as the troffer lights 130, the can lights 150, and thesensing devices 140, can be referred to generally as “LV devices”.

The sensing device 140 can be any device that detects one or moreconditions. Examples of a sensing device 140 can include, but are notlimited to, a photocell, a motion detector, an audio detector, apressure detector, a temperature sensor, and an air flow sensor. Thecontroller 190 can be any device that controls one or more of the otherdevices in the system 100. Examples of a controller 190 can include, butare not limited to, a thermostat, a dimmer switch, a control switch, acontrol panel, and a power switch.

The power source 110 generates and/or delivers, directly or indirectly,electrical power that is a higher voltage than the voltage ultimatelyused by the various low-voltage (LV) devices (e.g., troffer lights 130,can lights 150, sensing device 140) in the system 100. The powergenerated or delivered by the power source 110 can be called linevoltage power. The line voltage power is a power that is typicallydelivered to a house, building, or other similar structure that supplieselectricity located within or proximate to such structure. The powersource 110 can also generate DC power. Examples of voltages generated bythe power source 110 can include 120 VAC, 240 VAC, 277 VAC, and 480 VAC.If the line voltage power is AC power, the frequency can be 50 Hz, 60Hz, or some other frequency. Examples of a power source 110 can include,but are not limited to, a battery, a solar panel, a wind turbine, apower capacitor, an energy storage device, a power transformer, a fuelcell, a generator, and a circuit panel. As defined herein, a linevoltage includes any of a number of voltages that is typically at leastas great as the maximum LV signal (described below), and that istypically a nominal service voltage such as 120 VAC, 277 VAC, or 480VDC.

The line voltage power is sent, directly or indirectly, from the powersource 110 to the other components of the system 100 using the linevoltage cables 102. The line voltage cables 102 can include one or moreconductors made of one or more electrically conductive materials (e.g.,copper, aluminum). The size (e.g., gauge) of the line voltage cables 102(and/or conductors therein) are sufficient to carry the line voltagepower of the power source 110. Each line voltage cable 102 may be coatedwith an insulator made of any suitable material (e.g., rubber, plastic)to keep the electrical conductors electrically isolated from any otherconductor in the line voltage cable 102.

In certain example embodiments, one or more of the LV devices 108 (inthis case, the light troffers 130, the can lights 150, the sensingdevice 140, and the controller 190) in the system 100 that receive theline voltage power from the power source 110 use an amount and/or type(e.g., DC, AC) of power that is different from the amount and type ofline voltage power generated by the power source 110. For example, theline voltage power can be AC power, and the LV devices 108 of the system100 require DC power to operate. In such a case, the device can includea local power transfer device (not shown). A local power transfer devicecan be used to receive line voltage power from a line voltage cable 102and to output LV power (also called a LV signal), where the LV power canbe used by the associated LV device 108. As defined herein, a LV signalhas a voltage that does not exceed approximately 42.4 VAC (root meansquare) or 60 VDC.

The power transfer device can include one or more of a number ofcomponents that alter the amount and/or a type of the line voltagepower. Such components can include, but are not limited to, atransformer (for raising or lowering a level of AC power), a rectifier(for generating DC power from AC power), and an inverter (for generatingAC power from DC power). The power transfer device can include solidstate components and/or discrete components (e.g., resistors,capacitors, diodes).

In embodiments currently used in the art, each LV device 108 (e.g., thetroffer lights 130, the can lights 150, the sensing device 140) has itsown point-of-load (POL) control device 109. Each POL control device 109(also called, among other names, a driver or a ballast) is usuallylocated within a housing of the LV device 108 and is designed to receivea LV signal. When a LV signal is received by the POL control device 109,the POL control device 109 provides power regulation and control to theLV device 108. Each POL control device 109 currently used in the art hasonly a single output channel, and so only enables a single function(e.g., dimming, enable a particular color light) of a single LV device108.

Systems currently known in the art, such as the system 100 shown in FIG.1, involve at least a line voltage signal (e.g., 120 VAC-277 VAC), whichmay also include a low voltage signal (defined below). In any case, theinclusion of line voltage signals delivered to LV devices 108 (e.g.,troffer lights 130, sensing devices 140) cannot be classified as a“safe” system under currently-existing standards and/or regulations. Forexample, such a system cannot be considered a NEC Class 2 system. Asanother example, such a system cannot be considered free from risk offire and/or electrical shock.

Further, using a combination of existing technologies cannot logicallyor rationally be combined to achieve the example systems describedherein. In some cases, modifying one or more existing systems known inthe art to achieve the example systems described herein would requirechanging the entire architecture of that system, essentially renderingthe existing system inoperable. For example, an existing system known inthe art that uses a programmable logic controller (PLC) to controlindividual devices in the system would have to be prohibitively alteredto feed varying low voltage signals to devices coupled to the same PLCchannel.

As another example, a number of existing systems known in the art sendlow voltage signals to a single device, either on its own or in parallelwith other devices, rather than multiple devices in series. Put anotherway, existing systems operate on a point-to-point architecture, and sorequire “homerun” wiring between a device and a controller. Thisarchitecture is, by definition, required because such systems known inthe art operate on a “power over Ethernet” or PoE model. As discussedbelow, example systems described herein do not use Ethernet cables.

FIG. 2 shows a system diagram of a distributed low voltage power system200 in accordance with certain example embodiments. In one or moreembodiments, one or more of the components shown in FIG. 2 may beomitted, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments ofdistributed low voltage power systems should not be considered limitedto the specific arrangements of components shown in FIG. 2.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the system 200 of FIG. 2 differs from thesystem 100 of FIG. 1 in several respects. The power source 110 and linevoltage cable 102 in the system 200 of FIG. 2 are substantially the sameas they are in the system 100 of FIG. 1. Further, the LV devices 208 (inthis case, the troffer lights 230, the can lights 250, the controller290, and the sensing device 240 (e.g., an occupancy sensor, a daylightsensor, an air quality sensor, a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor))are substantially the same as the corresponding LV devices 108 of thesystem 100 of FIG. 1, except that the LV devices 208 of the system 200of FIG. 2 may not have a power transfer device.

Specifically, the LV devices 208 (e.g., the troffer lights 230, the canlights 250, the controller 290, and the sensing device 240) of FIG. 2may not require a power transfer device because the power that each ofthese devices receive is LV power in a type and amount (e.g., 100 W, 48VDC) used by such devices. In certain example embodiments, a LV device208 can include or be coupled to a power transfer device that receivesthe LV signal and generates, using a POL control module 209 and the LVsignal, a level and type of power used by the LV device 208. However,one or more of these LV devices 208 can have a local controller functionthat performs one or more of a number of functions. Such functions caninclude, but are not limited to, receiving instructions (as from thepower distribution module 220 or PDM 220), collecting and recordingoperational data, recording communications with the PDM 220 and/or otherdevices, and sending operational data to the PDM 220 and/or otherdevices.

The example LV devices 208 (e.g., the troffer lights 230, the can lights250, the sensing device 240) listed above are not meant to be limiting.Examples of other LV devices 208 that can receive and use (directly orindirectly) LV signals from the PDM 220 can include, but are not limitedto, a power source (e.g., a LED driver, a ballast, a buck converter, abuck-boost converter), a controller (e.g., a pulse width modulator, apulse amplitude modulator, a constant current reduction dimmer), akeypad, a touchscreen, a dimming switch, a thermostat, a shadecontroller, a universal serial bus charger, and a meter (e.g., watermeter, gas meter, electric meter).

The troffer lights 230, the can lights 250, the controller 290, and thesensing device 240 are each electrically coupled, directly orindirectly, to the PDM 220. The PDM 220 is electrically coupled to thepower source 110 using the line voltage cable 102. The PDM 220 caninclude a power transfer device that generates one or more of a numberof LV signals for one or more of the LV devices 208 (e.g., the trofferlights 230, the can lights 250, the sensing device 240) in the system200. The PDM 220 can have an input portion (e.g., input channel 221), anoutput portion (e.g., output channel 222, output channel 223), and thepower transfer device 229. The power transfer device 229 of the PDM 220can be essentially the same as the power transfer device described abovefor each of the devices in the system 100 of FIG. 1.

In certain example embodiments, the input portion of the PDM 220 caninclude one or more input channels 221 that receive the line voltagepower from the power source 110. When the PDM 220 has multiple inputchannels 221, each input channel 211 can have the same, or different,amount and/or type of line voltage as the other input channels 221 ofthe PDM 220. The output portion of the PDM 220 can include one or moreof a number (e.g., one, two, five, ten) of output channels (e.g., outputchannel 222, output channel 223), where each output channel (also calledan outlet channel) of the output section delivers one or more LV signalsfor use by one or more LV devices 208 of the system 200 that areelectrically coupled to that output channel of the output portion of thePDM 220.

The amount and/or type of power of the LV signal of one output channelcan be substantially the same as, or different than, the amount and/ortype of power of the LV signal of another output channel of the outputportion of the PDM 220. For example, each output channel of the PDM 220can output 100 W, 48 VDC of power (also called the LV signal). The LVsignals delivered by an output channel of the PDM 220 can be at aconstant level and/or a variable level. The LV signals can change astate (e.g., on, off, dim, standby) of one or more devices. In addition,or in the alternative, the LV signal can send data (e.g., instructions,requests, information, status).

In certain example embodiments, one or more LV cables 204 are used toelectrically couple, directly or indirectly, each of the LV devices 208(e.g., the troffer lights 230, the can lights 250, the sensing device240) in the system 200 to the PDM 220. The LV cables 204 can have one ormore pairs of conductors. Each pair of conductors of the LV cable 204can deliver LV signals that represent power signals and/or communicationsignals. In some cases, a LV cable 204 has at least one pair ofconductors that carries power signals and at least one pair ofconductors that carries control signals. The LV cables 204 can be plenumrated. For example, one or more of the LV cables 204 can be used in dropceilings without conduit or cable trays.

The PDM 220 can also communicate, using an output channel (in this case,output channel 222) with one or more controllers 290 using acommunication link 206. The communication link 206 can be a LV cable204, Ethernet cable, or some other wired technology. In addition, or inthe alternative, the communication link 206 can be a network usingwireless technology (e.g., Wi-Fi, Zigbee, 6LoPan). The controller 290can be communicably coupled to one or more other systems in addition tothe PDM 220 of the system 200. Similarly, the PDM 220 can be coupled toone or more other PDMs in one or more other systems. The system 200 canhave multiple PDMs 220, where each PDM 220 of the system 200 provides LVpower and communicates (sends and receives data) with each other, acontroller 290, and/or one or more LV devices 208.

In addition to the capabilities of the controller 190 listed above withrespect to FIG. 1, the controller 290 of FIG. 2 can communicate with(e.g., send instructions to, receive data about one or more LV devices208 from) the PDM 220. Instructions sent by the controller 290 to thePDM 220 can affect the operation of all devices coupled to one or moreparticular channels of the PDM 220, particular devices coupled to one ormore particular channels of the PDM 220, or any combination thereof.Communication between the PDM 220, the controller 290, and thecontrollers in one or more devices of the system 200 can include thetransfer (sending and/or receiving) of data. Communications between thePDM 220, the controller 290, and/or a LV device 208 (e.g., the trofferlights 230, the can lights 250, the sensing device 240) can be madethrough the LV cables 204 and/or the communication link 206, using wiredand/or wireless technology.

Such data can include instructions, status reports, notifications,and/or any other type of information. Specific examples of data and/orinstructions sent between the PDM 220, the controller 290, and/or a LVdevice 208 (e.g., the troffer lights 230, the can lights 250, thesensing device 240) can include, but are not limited to, a light level,a light fade rate, a demand response, occupancy of an area, detection ofdaylight, a security override, a temperature, a measurement of power, ameasurement or calculation of power factor, operational status, a modeof operation, a dimming curve, a color and/or correlated colortemperature (CCT), a manual action, manufacturing information,performance information, warranty information, air quality measurements,upgrade of firmware, update of software, position of a shade, an adevice identifier.

Communications between the PDM 220, the controller 290, and/or a LVdevice 208 (e.g., the troffer lights 230, the can lights 250, thesensing device 240) can be based on one or more of a number of factors.For example, communications can be based on an algorithm or formula setforth in software and/or hardware within one or more components of thesystem 200. As another example, communications can be based on eventsassociated with a LV device 208 or other component of the system. Suchevents can include, but are not limited to, light intensity, anemergency condition, demand response, passage of time, and a time sweep.

Communications between the PDM 220, the controller 290, and/or a LVdevice 208 (e.g., the troffer lights 230, the can lights 250, thesensing device 240) can be made through the LV cables 204 and/or thecommunication link 206, using wired and/or wireless technology.

In certain example embodiments, the PDM 220 can include communicationand diagnostic capabilities. Communications can be with the controller290, one or more devices coupled to the PDM 220, other PDMs 220 in thesystem 200, a user device, and/or any other component of the system 200.Diagnostic capabilities can be for operations of the system 200 overall,for operations of the PDM 220, for operations of one or more LV devices208 coupled to the PDM 220, for operations of one or more other PDMs inthe system 200, and/or for any other components of the system 200.

The PDM 220, the controller 290, and/or the POL controllers 209 of oneor more LV devices 208 can include a hardware processor-based componentthat executes software instructions using integrated circuits, discretecomponents, and/or other mechanical and/or electronic architecture. Inaddition, or in the alternative, the PDM 220, the controller 290, and/orthe POL controllers 209 of one or more LV devices 208 can include one ormore of a number of non-hardware-based components. An example of such anon-hardware-based components can include one or more field programmablegate arrays (FPGA).

Using FPGAs and/or other similar devices known in the art allows the PDM220, the controller 290, and/or the POL controllers 209 of one or moreLV devices 208 to be programmable and function according to certainlogic rules and thresholds without the use, or with limited use, of ahardware processor. The PDM 220 can also have one or more of a number ofother hardware and/or software components, including but not limited toa storage repository, memory, an application interface, and a securitymodule. Similarly, the controller 290 and/or a POL control module 209 ofone or more LV devices 208 in the system 200 can include one or moresoftware and/or hardware components, including but not limited to thoselisted above for the PDM 220.

FIG. 3 shows a system diagram of another distributed low voltage powersystem 300 in accordance with certain example embodiments. In one ormore embodiments, one or more of the components shown in FIG. 3 may beomitted, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments ofdistributed low voltage power systems should not be considered limitedto the specific arrangements of components shown in FIG. 3.

Referring to FIGS. 1-3, the system 300 in this case is in asingle-story, multi-occupant office building. The office building caninclude a lobby 300, a number of storage rooms (e.g., storage room 385,storage room 386), a large conference room 387, a number of office areas(e.g., office area 379, office area 382, office area 383, office area384, and office area 389), a number of small conference rooms 388, and ahallway 381 that connects all of the aforementioned office spaces. Inthis system 300, there are multiple PDMs 320, with at least one PDM 320designated for each office space.

Referring to FIGS. 1-3, the system 300 in this case is in asingle-story, multi-occupant office building. The office building caninclude a lobby 380, a number of storage rooms (e.g., storage room 385,storage room 386), a large conference room 387, a number of office areas(e.g., office area 379, office area 382, office area 383, office area384, and office area 389), a number of small conference rooms 388, and ahallway 381 that connects all of the aforementioned office spaces. Inthis system 300, there are multiple PDMs 320, with at least one PDM 320designated for each office space.

FIG. 4 shows a system diagram of yet another distributed low voltagepower system in accordance with certain example embodiments. In one ormore embodiments, one or more of the components shown in FIG. 4 may beomitted, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments ofdistributed low voltage power systems should not be considered limitedto the specific arrangements of components shown in FIG. 4.

Referring to FIGS. 1-4, the system 400 of FIG. 4 has a PDM 420 thatincludes a power transfer device 429 and has input channel 421 andoutput channel 422. The PDM 420 receives line voltage power from powersource 410 at input channel 421 through line voltage cable 402. The PDM420 communicates with one or more (in this case, three) controllers 490at output channel 422 through communication link 406. The PDM 420 alsohas three other output channels 423 (output channel 423A, output channel423B, and output channel 423C) that provide LV signals through LV cables404. Output channel 423A of the PDM 420 provides LV signals in series totwo troffer lights 430, a photocell/timer 441, and another troffer light430. Output channel 423B of the PDM 420 provides LV signals in series tothree can lights 450, a different troffer light 431, and an inverter460, which feeds AC power to a wall outlet 470 using a line voltagecable 402. Output channel 423C of the PDM 420 provides LV signals inseries to a motion sensor 440, three light troffers 430, and anothermotion sensor 440.

As discussed above, in current embodiments, a single POL control module(e.g., POL control module 409) is used to control a single aspect of theoperation of a single LV device. This leads to high costs, as the POLcontrol module is relatively expensive relative to the other componentsof a LV device. In certain example embodiments, a new POL control modulehaving multiple output channels is used to control multiple LV devicesand/or multiple functions of a single LV device.

For example, FIG. 5 shows a system diagram of still another distributedlow voltage power system 500 in accordance with certain exampleembodiments. Further, FIGS. 6A and 6B show a system diagram of yetanother distributed low voltage power system 600 in accordance withcertain example embodiments. In one or more embodiments, one or more ofthe components shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 may be omitted, repeated, and/orsubstituted. Accordingly, embodiments of distributed low voltage powersystems should not be considered limited to the specific arrangements ofcomponents shown in FIGS. 5, 6A, and 6B.

Referring to FIGS. 1-6B, the system 500 of FIG. 5 is substantially thesame as the system 400 of FIG. 4, except as described below. The PDM 520receives line voltage power from power source 510 at input channel 521through line voltage cable 502. In this case, there is only one outputchannel 523 of the PDM 520. The output channel 523 of the PDM 520 iscoupled to an example multiple output channel POL control module 535using a LV cable 504. The multiple output channel POL control module 535functions substantially the same as the POL control module describedabove and currently used in the art, except that the output portion ofthe example multiple output channel POL control module 535 has multiple(in this case, four) output channels (in this case, output channel 538A,output channel 538B, output channel 538C, and output channel 538D).

In certain example embodiments, the multiple output channel POL controlmodule 535 has a body 539 and includes an input portion (in this case,defined by input channel 536) and an output portion. The output portioncan include multiple output channels (e.g., output channel 538A, outputchannel 538B, output channel 538C, output channel 538D), where eachoutput channel 538 is coupled to a LV device 508. For example, as shownin FIG. 5, each output channel 538 is coupled to a can light 550.

The multiple output channel POL control module 535 can be coupled to theLV devices 508 using one or more communication links 505. Acommunication link 505 can be a LV cable 504, Ethernet cable, or someother wired technology. In addition, or in the alternative, thecommunication link 505 can be a network using wireless technology (e.g.,Wi-Fi, Zigbee, 6LoPan). The multiple output channel POL control module535 can be communicably coupled to one or more other PDMs in addition tothe PDM 520 of the system 500.

The output portion of the multiple output channel POL control module 535can also include an output channel 537 that allows the multiple outputchannel POL control module 535 to connect to, using a LV cable 504,another multiple output channel POL control module 535 and/or one ormore other LV devices 508. The system 500 can have multiple outputchannel POL control modules 535, where each multi-output POL controlmodule 535 of the system 500 provides power regulation and control tomultiple LV devices 508.

In this case, since the input channel 536 of the multiple output channelPOL control module 535 is connected via a LV cable 504, the multipleoutput channel POL control module 535 is classified as a Class 2 (lowpower, up to 100 Watts) device connected to a Class 2 network. Incertain example embodiments, the multiple output channel POL controlmodule 535 is a separate device from the LV devices 508 to which themultiple output channel POL control module 535 is coupled. In such acase, the multiple output channel POL control module 535 can be locatedphysically proximate to the LV devices 508 to which the multiple outputchannel POL control module 535 is coupled.

By controlling the multiple LV devices 508 of FIG. 5 with the singlemultiple output channel POL control module 535, the cost of each LVdevice 508 is lower compared to similar LV devices currently used in theart because the LV devices 508 do not need a POL control module.Further, even though multiple LV devices 508 are controlled by themultiple output channel POL control module 535, the power regulation andcontrol provided to one LV device 508 by the multiple output channel POLcontrol module 535 can be the same as, and/or different than, the powerregulation and control provided to the other LV devices 508 by themultiple output channel POL control module 535.

In addition, or in the alternative, a multiple output channel POLcontrol module 635 can be integrated with a LV device 608 (e.g., the canlight 650 of FIG. 6A). In such a case, the multiple output channel POLcontrol module 635 can provide power regulation and control that addressmultiple functions (e.g., dimming, color selection) for a single LVdevice 608. For example, as shown in the system 600 of FIGS. 6A and 6B,the can light 650 includes a multiple output channel POL control module635 that controls three different color outputs of the can light 650. Aswith the multiple output channel POL control module 535 of FIG. 5, theoutput portion of the example multiple output channel POL control module635 has multiple (in this case, three) output channels (in this case,output channel 638A, output channel 638B, and output channel 638C).

In certain example embodiments, the multiple output channel POL controlmodule 635 includes an input portion (in this case, defined by inputchannel 636) and an output portion. The output portion can includemultiple output channels (e.g., output channel 638A, output channel638B, output channel 638C), where each output channel 638 is coupled toa different portion (in this case, red LED 692, green LED 693, and blueLED 694, respectively) of the LV device 608. As such, the multipleoutput channel POL control module 635 can turn on/off each LEDindividually. The multiple output channel POL control module 635 can becoupled to the LEDs of the LV device 608 using one or more (in thiscase, one for each output channel) communication links 605. Acommunication link 605 can be substantially the same as thecommunication link 505 described above.

The input channel 636 of the multiple output channel POL control module635 can be communicably coupled to one or more devices (e.g., a PDM)using a LV cable 604. The output portion of the multiple output channelPOL control module 635 can also include an output channel 637 thatallows the multiple output channel POL control module 635 to connect to,using a LV cable 604, one or more other components (e.g., one or moreother LV devices 608) of the system 600. The system 600 can havemultiple output channel POL control modules 635, where each multi-outputPOL control module 635 of the system 600 provides power regulation andcontrol to multiple LV devices 608 and/or to multiple functions of asingle LV device 608.

In this case, since the input channel 636 of the multiple output channelPOL control module 635 is connected via a LV cable 604, LV device 608that includes the multiple output channel POL control module 635 isclassified as a Class 2 (low power, up to 100 Watts) device connected toa Class 2 network. In certain example embodiments, the multiple outputchannel POL control module 635 is part of the LV device 608 and controlsmultiple functions of the LV device 608. Examples of such functions caninclude, but are not limited to, color changing, warm dimming, CCTtuning, and up-down lights for a LV device 608 with multiple luminaires.

By controlling multiple functions of the LV device 608 of FIGS. 6A and6B with the integrated single multiple output channel POL control module635, the cost of the LV device 608 is lower compared to similar LVdevices currently used in the art because the LV devices 608 do not needmultiple POL control modules. Further, while not shown in FIGS. 6A and6B, a hybrid situation between the system 600 of FIGS. 6A and 6B and thesystem 500 of FIG. 5 can be possible, where a multiple output channelPOL control module 635 that is integrated with a LV device 608 canprovide power regulation and control for one or more functions of thatLV device 608 while also providing power regulation and control for oneor more other LV devices 608 coupled to an output channel 638 of themultiple output channel POL control module 635.

A multiple output channel POL control module (e.g., multiple outputchannel POL control module 535, multiple output channel POL controlmodule 635) can be configured and have communication capabilities(including programmability) such as those discussed above for the PDMand/or a controller (e.g., controller 290). For example, in order foreach output channel of a multiple output channel POL control module tobe individually controlled, each output channel can be configured in oneor more of a number of ways to become enabled based on the content of aLV signal, the time of day, the occurrence of an event, and/or someother trigger.

Example embodiments provide a number of benefits. Examples of suchbenefits include, but are not limited to, reduction in energy usage;more simplistic installation, replacement, modification, and maintenanceof a system; qualification as a Class 2 device and/or system; compliancewith one or more applicable standards and/or regulations; less need forlicensed electricians; reduced downtime of equipment; lower maintenancecosts, avoidance of catastrophic failure; increased flexibility insystem design and implementation; prognosis of equipment failure;improved maintenance planning; and reduced cost of labor and materials.Example embodiments can also be integrated (e.g., retrofitted) withexisting systems.

Example embodiments are electrically safe. Example systems or anyportion thereof can be free from risk (or a greatly reduced risk) offire or electrical shock for any user installing, using, replacing,and/or maintaining any portion of example embodiments. For example, theLV signals that feed a device can allow a user to maintain the devicewithout fear of fire or electrical shock. While Class 2 systems andSELV/PELV/FELV are described above, example embodiments can comply withone or more of a number of similar standards and/or regulationsthroughout the world.

Although embodiments described herein are made with reference to exampleembodiments, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art thatvarious modifications are well within the scope and spirit of thisdisclosure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the exampleembodiments described herein are not limited to any specificallydiscussed application and that the embodiments described herein areillustrative and not restrictive. From the description of the exampleembodiments, equivalents of the elements shown therein will suggestthemselves to those skilled in the art, and ways of constructing otherembodiments using the present disclosure will suggest themselves topractitioners of the art. Therefore, the scope of the exampleembodiments is not limited herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. A distributed low voltage power system,comprising: a power source generating line voltage power; a first linevoltage cable comprising a first line voltage end and a second linevoltage end, wherein the first line voltage end is coupled to the powersource; a controller comprising a plurality of controller outputchannels; a first power distribution module (PDM) coupled to the powersource and a first controller output channel of the plurality ofcontroller output channels of the controller, wherein the first PDMcomprises a first power transfer device, wherein the second line voltageend of the first line voltage cable is coupled to the first PDM, whereinthe first PDM receives the input power from the power source through thefirst line voltage cable, wherein the first power transfer devicegenerates, based on instructions from the controller, a firstlow-voltage (LV) signal comprising a first instruction and a second LVsignal comprising a second instruction, and wherein the first PDMcomprises a first PDM output channel; and at least one first LV devicecoupled to the first PDM output channel of the first PDM, wherein the atleast one first LV device operates using the first instruction uponreceiving the first LV signal, and wherein the at least one first LVdevice ignores the second LV signal based on the second instruction. 2.The distributed low voltage power system of claim 1, further comprising:at least one second LV device coupled to the first PDM output channel ofthe first PDM, wherein the at least one first LV device operates usingthe second instruction upon receiving the second LV signal, and whereinthe at least one first LV device ignores the first LV signal based onthe first instruction.
 3. The distributed low voltage power system ofclaim 1, further comprising: a second line voltage cable having a thirdline voltage end and a fourth line voltage end, wherein the second linevoltage end is coupled to the power source; a second PDM coupled to thepower source and a second controller output channel of the plurality ofcontroller output channels of the controller, wherein the second PDMcomprises a second power transfer device, wherein the fourth linevoltage end of the second line voltage cable is coupled to the secondPDM, wherein the second PDM receives the input power from the powersource through the second line voltage cable, wherein the second powertransfer device generates, based on instructions from the controller, asecond LV signal comprising a first instruction and a second LV signalcomprising a second instruction, and wherein the second PDM comprises asecond PDM output channel; and at least one second LV device coupled tothe first PDM output channel of the first PDM, wherein the at least onesecond LV device operates using the second instruction upon receivingthe second LV signal, and wherein the at least one second LV deviceignores the first LV signal based on the first instruction.
 4. Thedistributed low voltage power system of claim 1, wherein the at leastone first LV device comprises at least one first point-of-load (POL)controller that tracks activity of the at least one first LV device andthat is coupled to the first PDM output channel of the first PDM.
 5. Thedistributed low voltage power system of claim 4, wherein the first PDMfurther comprises a PDM controller communicably coupled to the at leastone first POL controller, wherein the PDM controller is configured tosend local data to and receive the local data from the at least onefirst POL controller.
 6. The distributed low voltage power system ofclaim 1, further comprising: a wireless communication link that couplesthe first PDM output channel of the first PDM to the at least one firstLV device, wherein the at least one first LV device receives the firstLV signal from the first PDM using the first wireless communicationlink.
 7. The distributed low voltage power system of claim 6, whereinthe wireless communication link transfers power and communicationsignals between the first PDM and the at least one first LV device. 8.The distributed low voltage power system of claim 6, further comprising:at least one multiple output channel point-of-load (POL) control moduledisposed between the first PDM and the at least one first LV device,wherein the at least one multiple output channel POL control module usesthe wireless communication link.
 9. The distributed low voltage powersystem of claim 1, wherein the controller is coupled to the first PDMusing a wireless communication link.
 10. The distributed low voltagepower system of claim 1, wherein the first LV signal is direct currentpower.
 11. The distributed low voltage power system of claim 1, whereinthe at least one first LV device qualifies as a Class 2 device.
 12. Thedistributed low voltage power system of claim 1, wherein the at leastone LV device is used for lighting applications.
 13. The distributed lowvoltage power system of claim 1, wherein the first LV signal and thesecond LV signal are based on instructions from the controller.
 14. Thedistributed low voltage power system of claim 1, wherein the controllerand the first PDM communicate using at least one wireless communicationlink.
 15. A power distribution module (PDM), comprising: an inputportion configured to receive: high-voltage (HV) power from a powersource; and control signals from a controller; a power transfer deviceelectrically coupled to the input portion, wherein the power transferdevice is configured to generate a first low-voltage (LV) signalcomprising a first instruction and a second LV signal comprising asecond instruction using the HV power and the control signals; an outputsection electrically coupled to the power transfer device and comprisinga plurality of channels, wherein each channel of the plurality ofchannels of the output section is configured to deliver the first LVsignal and the second LV signal to at least one LV device; and a PDMcontroller configured to send local data to and receive the controlsignals from the controller using at least one wireless communicationlink, wherein the at least one wireless communication link is furtherconfigured to transfer the first LV signal and the second LV signal tothe at least one LV device, wherein the at least one LV device operatesusing the first LV signal based on the first instruction, and whereinthe at least one LV device ignores the second LV signal based on thesecond instruction.
 16. The power distribution module of claim 15,wherein the first LV signal comprises power and communications.
 17. Thepower distribution module of claim 15, wherein each channel of theplurality of channels of the output section is further configured toreceive a status of the at least one LV device.
 18. The powerdistribution module of claim 15, wherein the output section sends thefirst LV signal and the second LV signal to the at least one LV deviceusing at least one wireless communication link.